Much Needed Vacation - Now Ready to Train!

Friday, May 31, 2013

Last Sunday, I returned from the absolute best vacation I've ever taken in my entire life. I traveled to New Orleans (my favorite city on earth!) and then embarked on my first ever cruise (to Cozumel, Mexico).

I can't describe the feeling of relaxation on this trip. No kids. No responsibilities and no way for anyone to get in touch with me (I am all about NOT paying international cell phone rates).

Plenty of great food and the cocktails were flowing. One afternoon on the ship, I fell asleep in the sun and woke up feeling so wonderful - warm and rested. I've never experienced peace like that before!

In Cozumel, took a 45 minute power catamarand ride to a private island called Isla de Pasion (Passion Island). WOW! It was just beautiful! All the food and beverages were included. The sand was white and the water was blue-green and as warm as a bathtub. It was GORGEOUS!

All in all, I did OK. Only lost about $65 in the casino (hey, that's not bad considering I had 24-hour access to it and I was stuck on a boat so that was frequently all there was to do while we were at sea). Didn't really overeat like you hear tell of from most cruisers. I did gain a couple pounds, but who doesn't on vacation?

Now, I'm back. And have been scrambling to catch up with real life. It was such a WONDERFUL break, though. The after effects have not worn off. I just feel calm, cool, collected. So relaxed...even in the midst of real life everyday stress. I like this!

Yesterday I laid out my training plan for my September 10k. Going to use the Higdon training plan, which is nice and gradual. It is only 8 weeks long, but I have built an extra 8 weeks of training in before I even start Higdon. When I say I'm starting slow, I mean SLOW. As in...my first training "run" is a 1/2 mile WALK. First "long run" is a 1/2 mile run.

While I can comfortably run about 5 miles before I begin to feel a run, I am determined not to overtrain and burn out before this race...seeing as it will be one of the few races I will be able to do this season. I want it to really count and be a great experience.

Anyway, things could not be better for me. I know some of you have messaged and asked how I am doing. I will tell you this: I am happier than I've ever been in my entire life. I have beautiful children, a wonderful job, fantastic friends, supportive family, and a life completely bursting with love and affection. What more could a girl ask for?

I can remember that first time I experienced a totally relaxed vacation. Sadly, they are not all that way, but when they are it is total decompression! Welcome back to real life - and hope your training goes well. Sounds like a really good plan!

Your training plan seems smart. While you technically could go faster, it may not be a good idea since you don't want to overtrain/get injured, etc.

I need to start with a plan like that! I've taken a break (long one!) from running. I want to start again but it is hard starting at the beginning. Maybe a plan like the one you're following would be good.

I'm glad you had a great time. I think everyone should be treated like this at least once in their life. But could you take me next time I will be really good...please... please ...please...pleasewell maybe I would whine just a little. Jeanne